Rev. Dr. Christopher Ritter Challenges Newly Ordained Ministers to Lead with Biblical Integrity, Humility, and Faithfulness
The Global Methodist Church (GMC) Liberia celebrated a significant milestone in March as it ordained a new group of clergy during a solemn and inspiring Ordination Service, reaffirming its commitment to raising faithful servant leaders for Christ’s Church. The service brought together clergy, delegates, church leaders, families, and members from across Liberia to witness the sacred commissioning of ministers called to proclaim the Gospel and shepherd God’s people.
Delivering the keynote message, Rev. Dr. Christopher Ritter preached on the theme, “Building Healthy Congregations through Healthy Christian Leadership,” drawing from Matthew 16:13–20 and Acts 2:42–47. His message emphasized that healthy churches are built through leaders whose lives reflect Christ, whose ministries are grounded in Scripture, and whose hearts are devoted to serving God and His people.
Speaking to the ordinands and the congregation, Rev. Dr. Ritter reminded those entering ministry that Christian leadership begins with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. “Healthy congregations are built by healthy Christian leaders,” he said. “When leaders are deeply rooted in God’s Word, committed to prayer, and led by the Holy Spirit, they inspire others to grow in faith and become faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.”
Drawing from Jesus’ declaration in Matthew 16, Rev. Dr. Ritter encouraged the newly ordained ministers to remain steadfast in their calling, reminding them that Christ alone is the foundation of the Church. “Jesus declared, ‘I will build my Church,’ and that promise still stands today,” he said. “Your responsibility is to faithfully preach the Gospel, shepherd God’s people with humility, and trust Christ to accomplish His mission through your obedience.”
Referencing the fellowship of believers in Acts 2, Rev. Dr. Ritter challenged the Church to cultivate congregations characterized by sound biblical teaching, sincere fellowship, fervent prayer, generous service, and passionate evangelism. “The world needs authentic Christian leaders now more than ever,” he declared. “Lead by example. Love the people God has entrusted to your care. Remain faithful even when ministry is difficult, because lives are transformed when leaders reflect the character of Christ.”
The ordination service concluded with prayers of consecration as the newly ordained ministers committed themselves to serving the Church with faithfulness and integrity. The ceremony marked another important chapter in the growth of the Global Methodist Church Liberia, reinforcing its mission to develop biblically grounded leaders who will build healthy congregations, make disciples, and proclaim the hope of Jesus Christ throughout Liberia and beyond.
